Activities for Seniors
Save time with 1000s of activity ideas & helpful resources. Plan and implement activity programs that are stimulating, relevant, and suit a wide range of needs and interests.
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Christmas Carols Booklet for Senior Care - 22 Carols 8 Hyms
Carol singing is an essential part of Christmas, gather the residents, their families and friends to enjoy the wonderful songs associated with it. This book contains lyrics to 30 of the most loved Christmas Carols and Hymns.
Music Christmas 284 0New
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The Green Quiz
This fun quiz is dedicated to all things green!
Quiz St Patrick's Day 7628 1New
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Armchair Travel to Netherlands
This comprehensive armchair travel activity includes everything you need for a full day of travel to the NETHERLANDS. Fact files, trivia, quizzes, music, food, posters, craft and more! We hope you enjoy the NETHERLANDS travelog!
Armchair Travel Multicultural Netherlands 445 21 Comment New
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15 Snippets of Dutch Trivia
Here are some fascinating facts about the Netherlands!
Netherlands Trivia 120 3New
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Netherlands Quiz
A quiz all the Netherlands!
Quiz Netherlands 122 4New
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Thingamijigs
Guess the correct name of these everyday items.
Quiz 491 53 Comments New Member Activity
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The Netherlands Fact File
An attractive one-page fact file all about the Netherlands. Print, distribute and discuss!
Netherlands 110 6New
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Ho Ho and Ho
Here is a fun Christmas crossword to enjoy!
197 7New Member Activity
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Christmas Carols Quiz II
Here's a fun quiz all about well-known Christmas carols!
Quiz Christmas 482 81 Comment New Member Activity
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My Grandma's House Poems
Two poems to warm your heart!
Poetry 92 9New Member Activity
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Words in Words Game 8
Find as many words as you can from the words provided.
Quiz 147 10New Member Activity
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Strawberry Fristi Recipe
Fristi is a healthy and delicious yoghurt drink popular in the Netherlands. It can be made with any fruit in season.
Netherlands Cooking 78 11New
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Netherlands Travel Posters
Posters of famous tourist destinations in Netherlands!
Posters Netherlands 21 12New
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Netherlands Bunting Templates
The Netherlands Bunting templates for a Dutch party!
Netherlands 6 13New
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The Netherlands Landmark Posters
Posters of famous landmarks in the Netherlands!
Posters Netherlands 27 14New
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This Day in History for Seniors: January - 2nd Edition
A reminiscing magazine for every day in January! Enjoy a full page of information about every day of the year, including important historical events, short bios, jokes, quotes, and fun brain teasers.
This Day in History Short Stories Trivia * January Anytime * 332 152 Comments New
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Newsletter Template - January 2021
Here is a newsletter template for December 2020 in WORD format. So easy to edit and customize!
Forms & Templates * January Anytime * 255 162 Comments New
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Who Am I? January Birthdays
Guess who these famous people are - all born in January! A fun reminiscing activity.
Who Am I Quiz * January Anytime * 3256 17Updated
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Short Story: I Will Always Love You, Dolly Parton
The song I Will Always Love You is one of Dolly Parton’s most loved from her iconic career. This is the story of how the song came to be.
Short Stories * January Anytime * 464 18New
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America's First Ladies Trivia
America’s First Ladies are public figures, but how much do you know about them? Here are some fun facts to share with one another as you brush up on your First Lady Facts prior to Inauguration Day.
Trivia Inauguratin Day 245 19New
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Famous Redheads Reminiscing
How much do you know about redheads in past and present pop culture or history? Find out with a few of these trivia questions and conversation starters.
Reminiscing * January Anytime * 319 20New
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Snowy Day Poetry Appreciation
Even if you don’t live in a part of the world that sees snow very often in the winter, you can still cozy up with some snowy day poetry. Use a few poems to read aloud to the group, discussing each one.
Poetry * January Anytime * Winter - Northern Hemisphere Winter - Southern Hemisphere 304 21New
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Artist Impression - Jackson Pollock - Abstract 1
Famous Artist Coloring Pages: Here is an impression of a work of art by Jackson Pollock - Abstract 1
Artist Impressions Colouring 91 22New
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Artist Impression - Édouard Manet - The Fifer
Famous Artist Coloring Pages: Here is an impression of a work of art by Édouard Manet - The Fifer
Artist Impressions Colouring 33 23New
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Artist Impression - Clementine Hunter - 2
Famous Artist Coloring Pages: Here is an impression of a work of art by Clementine Hunter
Artist Impressions Colouring 56 24New
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Artist Impression - Clementine Hunter - 1
Famous Artist Coloring Pages: Here is an impression of a work of art by Clementine Hunter
Artist Impressions Colouring 24 25New
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Artist Impression - Paul Cézanne - The Bay
Famous Artist Coloring Pages: Here is an impression of a work of art by Paul Cézanne - The Bay
Artist Impressions Colouring 40 26New
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Three Kings Day Sensory Kit Inspiration
In most Christian cultures, Epiphany marks when the three wisemen arrived to visit Jesus after his birth. You can celebrate Epiphany with a sensory stimulation group or individual activity.
Epiphany 199 27New
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Art Templates - Artists born in January
Celebrate the January birthdays of these famous artists with colouring-in templates inspired from their work.
Colouring * January Anytime * 4181 281 Comment Updated
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How to Plan for the Festive Season in the Midst of the Pandemic
The coronavirus pandemic has made senior living activity planning extra difficult. Between visitor limits, social distancing, and other precautions, the holidays are sure to look different this year.
Articles 1211 294 Comments Member Activity
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Reveal the Animal Word Game
Change one letter to reveal a type of animal!
Word Games * January Anytime * 735 30
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Same First & Last Letter Quiz
All the answers to this quiz start and finish with the same letter!
Quiz 781 31
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The Letter J Quiz #3
All the answers to this quiz start with the letter J!
Quiz * January Anytime * * June Anytime * * July Anytime * 555 32
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What Do You See? Close Up Views of Every Day Items
This activity is an activity to help stimulate the brain. The photos included are every day items magnified in appearance.
Quiz 816 333 Comments Member Activity
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Santa's Beard Countdown To Christmas
Santa's Beard is a great starter for December! Each day you add a cotton wool ball and Santa's beard will grow.
Christmas 606 341 Comment Member Activity
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12 Habits That Make You Look Professional
As a leader in your senior community, it is imperative to be professional in all your interactions with residents, family, and colleagues. Here’s how to put your best foot forward
Articles 1214 356 Comments Member Activity
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Elvis Presley Quiz
Here is an Elvis themed quiz to enjoy!
Quiz Elvis Presley's Birthday 293 36
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The Marriage of Figaro Opera Event
This beautiful opera of almost 3 hours duration by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is a splendid way to celebrate the birthday of one of the world’s most beloved classical composers.
Music Mozart's Birthday 89 37
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Christmas Poems to Share
Here are some cute Christmas poems to share
Poetry Christmas 1439 381 Comment Member Activity
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DIY Light Bottles
Beautiful diy light bottles that residents can decorate!
Christmas 964 391 Comment Member Activity
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Pantomime Quiz
Test your knowledge of well-known pantomimes!
Quiz Christmas 943 401 Comment Member Activity
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Reminiscing with Paul's Jukebox
Reminisce with Paul's Jukebox
Reminiscing Music 725 412 Comments Member Activity
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9 Examples of Activity-Based Care Plan Interventions
The Care Plan is an excellent place to demonstrate how activities can be therapeutic for the residents you serve. Here is how to write excellent interventions rooted in activities and events.
Articles Care Plans Alzheimer's & Dementia 1601 422 Comments Member Activity
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Cloud Gazing PowerPoint Activity
Let's Go Cloud Gazing!
Reminiscing 763 431 Comment Member Activity
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Christmas Quiz V
Here is another Christmas quiz to enjoy!
Quiz Christmas 2314 441 Comment Member Activity
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Pot Luck Quiz #16
Another pot luck quiz to enjoy!
Quiz 1106 451 Comment Member Activity
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Christmas Poem: A Visit From St. Nicholas
Do you like poetry - Here' s a nice Christmas Classic - A VISIT FROM ST. NICHOLAS.
Poetry Christmas 771 461 Comment Member Activity
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Tree of Thanks
My residents loved this activity, It was a great way to get them all thinking of what they are thankful for, even during the toughest of times! Plus, the tree looks beautiful in our facility for fall!
Craft Autumn (Northern Hemisphere) Autumn (Southern Hemisphere) 905 472 Comments Member Activity
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Sing-Along Word Search
Here is a singalong inspired word search to share!
Word Search World Music Day 262 482 Comments Member Activity
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Water Bottle Fish Craft
Hang these lovelydecorative fish crafts in your recreation area!
Craft World Oceans Day 329 491 Comment Member Activity
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Free Activity Calendar for Seniors
You can now add Daily Schedules, Icons, and Print at a variety of sizes! This easy to edit activity calendar can be pre-filled with upcoming events and celebration ideas for nursing homes and assisted living facilities. A perfect resource for activity coordinators working with the elderly.
Forms & Templates Articles 86390 0134 Comments
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20 Practical Activities for people living with Alzheimer’s Disease
20 activities for the elderly with dementia. The following ideas may be used on a one-to-one basis and others may be suitable for small groups depending on their abilities. These dementia activities are designed to promote and maintain existing skills.
Alzheimer's & Dementia Articles 37502 165 Comments
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Words in Words Game
This game is very popular! It provides mental stimulation, social interaction and promotion of self-worth.
Word Games 30915 272 Comments
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The Price is Right Game
This is such a fun game! Residents will love reminiscing about the price of groceries in a social setting.
Games Alzheimer's & Dementia 28836 354 Comments
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Things that go Together Quiz
There are two ways to play this game. Great for people living with dementia!
Quiz Alzheimer's & Dementia Coronavirus: Covid-19 25908 435 Comments
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How To Structure Reminiscing Sessions For Seniors
Reminiscing with the elderly is a wonderful way to validate the lives of individuals and provide seniors with a sense of purpose, especially those living with dementia. Reminiscing activities also encourage social interaction and promote interpersonal skills.
Reminiscing Alzheimer's & Dementia Articles One-on-One 23519 530 Comments
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6 Whiteboard Games for the Elderly
Whiteboards are an indispensable tool for Activity Coordinators and can be used for group activities, communication and learning!
Articles Games Word Games Happy Hour Coronavirus: Covid-19 21907 632 Comments
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Games for People Living with Dementia
Adapting and modifying games for seniors is necessary for all sorts of different reasons. As well as for those living with dementia, games need to be modified for those who use wheelchairs and those with impaired vision or sensory loss.
Alzheimer's & Dementia Games Articles 21738 739 Comments
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Balloon Games
Gentle exercise for the arms as well as an opportunity to socialize! Great for game for the elderly. Also suitable for people living with dementia.
Exercise Games Alzheimer's & Dementia Olympic Games Commonwealth Games 21222 866 Comments
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School Days Reminiscing Cards
This is a wonderful game that can be adapted to any occasion. Residents will enjoy reminiscing and sharing stories.
Reminiscing Alzheimer's & Dementia World Teachers Day 20808 927 Comments
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Finish the Sayings and Proverbs Game
This fun and simple game is great for seniors including people living with dementia. Includes well known sayings, idioms and proverbs that they will remember from their past.
Word Games Games Alzheimer's & Dementia Happy Hour Coronavirus: Covid-19 19944 1035 Comments
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Bucket of Bean Bags Game
This simple and fun game promotes friendships and physical activity!
Exercise Games Alzheimer's & Dementia Fathers Day (US, Canada & UK) Fathers Day (Australia & NZ) Olympic Games Commonwealth Games 19546 1117 Comments
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Musical Bingo
Musical Bingo improves recall and provides opportunities to reminisce. It is also an enjoyable and sociable game. This game was created by a Music Therapist I worked with and it was very popular in our Dementia Care Unit. If you don't have time to put the game together, ask a volunteer to help you. All you need is a computer, a printer and a laminator. This activity includes downloadable song cards and calling cards.
Music Reminiscing Alzheimer's & Dementia Bingo International Music Day World Music Day 18845 1212 Comments
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10 Activities to Make Seniors Laugh
Instilling a culture of humor and laughter into long-term care facilities is good for everyone and may even improve the overall functioning and well-being of your clients. It is important to incorporate funny and amusing activities into your regular program that cater to all tastes.
Jokes Articles 18786 1317 Comments
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Songs for Seniors Quiz
Here is an over 80s song list. It includes lyrics to over 80 popular songs from yesteryear to enjoy in a sing-along. Sing the first line, and then ask residents to sing the next line!
Music Quiz Coronavirus: Covid-19 International Music Day World Music Day 18628 1488 Comments Member Activity
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Sample Activities Calendars
Sample monthly and weekly activity calendars for activity coordinators working in nursing homes. I know from experience that when i first started at a rest home I was thrown in the deep end, and I just thought by sharing this it may help out a newbie to develop their activities program. This is a wonderful resource to help you plan ahead. Thanks to everyone who has shared their calendar.
Forms & Templates 18364 1542 Comments Member Activity
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Difficult Behaviour Care Plan 1
Anna is a 79 year old lady living with 2nd stage dementia. She seems to understand what staff say but is slow to respond. She is restless most of the day, sitting for only minutes at time...
Care Plans Articles 17555 1634 Comments
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Free Music Playlists for the Elderly
Music has been proven to be very beneficial for the elderly in long term care, particularly those living with dementia or Alzheimer's Disease. Here are some wonderful free playlists of famous songs from the 40s, 50s & 60s!
Music Articles 17304 1728 Comments
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Recycled Dream Spring Tree
Celebrate spring at your nursing home by making a gorgeous dream tree composed of spring flowers and blossoms!
Craft Colouring Spring (Southern Hemisphere) Spring (Northern Hemisphere) Summer (Southern Hemisphere) Summer (Northern Hemisphere) 17297 1856 Comments
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How to write a Care Plan
The documentation process varies from facility to facility but there are usually three important steps to follow.
Care Plans Articles 16505 1920 Comments
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Spot the Differences Contest
Have some fun having a 'Spot the Differences' contest! This is a great group activity for seniors!
Games Spot the Difference Colouring Fathers Day (US, Canada & UK) Fathers Day (Australia & NZ) * August Activities * * September Anytime * 15887 2018 Comments
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Read Aloud Activities for the Elderly
For the elderly who loved to read all their lives, listening to someone read to them can bring profound comfort and joy. Why not start a Read-Aloud Readers Group activity at your facility; a Book Club with a difference! Read-aloud activities are an intervention well worth pursuing.
Articles Reminiscing Hobby Clubs Coronavirus: Covid-19 World Read Aloud Day 15808 2125 Comments
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15 uplifting activities for people with limited mobility
Elderly people who are confined to bed for long periods of time because of diagnosis or frailty often experience severe mood swings. They get tired of sitting or lying down, become bored with life and miss social contact with others.
Articles Alzheimer's & Dementia One-on-One 15681 2220 Comments
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Care Plan Goals & Interventions
Learn how to respond to the assessment of needs with the following 6 case studies extracted from resident care plans.
Articles Care Plans 15426 2312 Comments
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50 Activities for the Elderly in Lockdown and Isolation
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is causing chaos worldwide and this is a hard time for so many. We need to hang in there - these crazy times will pass. Here are some in-room activitiy ideas for residents to enjoy while in isolation.
Articles Coronavirus: Covid-19 15412 2427 Comments
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Dementia Program - Weekly
This sample program is for acute Dementia care. Some people like to do it weekly, others monthly. Download the form and adjust it to suit you.
Alzheimer's & Dementia Forms & Templates 15077 2510 Comments
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15 Activities for Loners and Introverted Seniors
Most long term care facilities have some residents who are ‘loners’ or ‘introverts’; they enjoy being in their bedrooms and do not often pursue interaction with others.
Articles One-on-One 14685 2629 Comments
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Armchair Travel: A Sensory Experience for Seniors
Armchair Travel takes people to faraway places without leaving home. It provides a sensory experience and the opportunity to learn about exotic lands and important past events in a meaningful manner. This is a wonderful activity for seniors living in nursing homes and suitable for people with dementia.
Articles Multicultural Alzheimer's & Dementia New Zealand Reminiscing Colouring Armchair Travel Coronavirus: Covid-19 14566 2736 Comments
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Sensory Stimulation for Dementia Care
Sensory stimulation is the activation of one or more of the senses such as taste, smell, sight, hearing, and touch. Sensory stimulation is a key component for improving the quality of life of people living with dementia.
Articles Sensory Alzheimer's & Dementia 14247 2815 Comments
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Old Wives Tales #1 - True or False?
Old wives tales are widely held traditional beliefs that are now thought to be unscientific or incorrect. Nevertheless, many old wives tales have been scientifically proven to be true! Can you guess which ones?
Quiz Trivia Happy Hour * November Anytime * 14227 2917 Comments
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Indigenous Australian Dot Paintings
Indigenous Australians use plant shoots, Echidna quills and small twigs to paint their Dreamtime stories. Here are 12 Dot Painting Templates to enjoy with the elderly.
Craft Australia Colouring Australia Day NAIDOC Week World Indigenous Day 14118 3013 Comments
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Christmas Quiz
Here's a fun Christmas quiz for seniors in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
Quiz Christmas 14001 316 Comments
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Finish the Song Line Quiz
This quiz can be extended into a good old fashioned sing-a-long! Have fun!
Music Quiz 13381 324 Comments Member Activity
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How to Plan Music Activities for Dementia Care
Everyone responds instinctively to music. A person’s ability to engage in music often remains intact far into the advanced stages of dementia. Music triggers certain networks of the brain that benefit people suffering from difficulties with language, cognition, or motor control.
One-on-One Music Articles Alzheimer's & Dementia Reminiscing 13329 3310 Comments
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13 Reminiscing Themes for Seniors
Sharing and recollecting memories with seniors in long term care helps them to affirm who they are and maintain self worth.
Articles Reminiscing 13172 3411 Comments
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Tips for One-on-One Visits with Seniors
It is not uncommon for seniors living in assisted-living facilities to lack mental stimulation and social contact. Recreation Therapists often use one-on-one visits to respond to the needs of those who avoid social settings. There are many enjoyable games and activities that can keep minds and bodies strong and active.
One-on-One Articles Alzheimer's & Dementia 12982 3515 Comments
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Heart of Kindness
This is a group activity suitable for other celebrations as well, such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Valentine’s Day.
Craft World Kindness Day Valentine's Day Mothering Sunday (UK) Mothers Day (Australia, NZ, US & Canada) 12972 368 Comments
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This Day In History For Seniors: August
A reminiscing magazine for every day in August! Enjoy the next edition of the popular 'This Day in History' series with historical trivia, jokes, quotes and biographies!
Short Stories This Day in History Trivia * August Activities * 12725 3726 Comments
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Tips for Writing Successful Activity Programs for Senior Care
Designing activity programs for residents in nursing homes and long term care requires creative thinking and enthusiasm. Your main point of reference will be the assessment of your clients.
Articles Alzheimer's & Dementia 12566 3816 Comments
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How to motivate residents in long term care
Encouraging the elderly to participate in scheduled activities can be challenging. Lack of engagement is a common problem. It is important that you identify any barriers - whether perceived or real - that might be preventing residents from getting involved.
Articles Alzheimer's & Dementia 12514 3930 Comments
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Name a Word Quiz #1
Here's a fun word game for Seniors - Name a word starting with the same letter across 10 categories. Answers included!
Quiz Word Games * July Anytime * 12501 404 Comments
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This Day in History for Seniors: September
A reminiscing magazine for every day in September! Enjoy the next edition of the popular 'This Day in History' series with historical trivia, jokes, quotes and biographies!
This Day in History Short Stories Trivia * September Anytime * 12474 4124 Comments
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Activities for Men
Men’s activities are challenging! The best way to find meaningful activities for men is to uncover past lifestyle choices and history - you can gather this information from residents and their families. Here are 8 tips for engaging men in meaningful activities.
For Men Articles International Men's Day 12413 427 Comments
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Festive Wall Art Craft
Lovely wall art for all occasions! Video instructions included.
Craft Valentine's Day Easter Halloween 12242 436 Comments Video
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Guessing Game - Who Am I?
This is a wonderful reminiscing activity in a group setting. Guess the names of these famous people from the clues provided.
Reminiscing Alzheimer's & Dementia Games Who Am I 12066 449 Comments
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Two Minute Activities for Dementia Care
During your working hours, you will see many clients outside of programmed activities; seize the opportunity and engage with them. It will only take a minute or two and can transform someone's state of mind and lift their spirits more than you can imagine.
Articles Alzheimer's & Dementia 11986 4529 Comments
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For Giggles
Short and sweet jokes to share!
Jokes International Joke Day April Fool's Day * March Anytime * 11871 464 Comments
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Brain Quiz – Guess the Words
Challenge your brain and guess the words that fit these sentences.
Quiz * July Anytime * 11835 472 Comments
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Creative Thinking Exercises
Creativity is a skill to be developed and cherished. There are endless ways to train and exercise the brain! The following exercises are good practice for creative thinking.
Word Games For Men Riddles Coronavirus: Covid-19 * April Anytime * International Men's Day 11713 4810 Comments
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Scent Guessing
Sensory stimulation with familiar scents. A fun activity for seniors and the elderly living with dementia.
Sensory Reminiscing Alzheimer's & Dementia Aromatherapy One-on-One Mothering Sunday (UK) Mothers Day (Australia, NZ, US & Canada) 11461 4931 Comments
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I love the forum, I can get a feel of the issues recreation staff face in their work. Keep up the good work you do for us!!
Lauretta Kaldor
Diversional Therapist
Australia